Yes, we’re counting bugs (and plants).

A vital part of scaling up our Making Trash Bloom project, and kicking off our new project, Mowing for Monarchs (finding the best time to mow milkweed intensive areas to maximize habitat for monarch butterflies and other beneficials), is data collection. Led by Smithsonian entomologist Jim McNeil, we’re partnering with Mountain Vista Governor’s School and the State Arboretum of Virginia for a massive morning of plant and insect counting, collection, and documentation.

New and current Sustainability Matters volunteers are welcome to join us for this - no experience necessary! Training will take place on site. If you’re interested, reach out to our Scientific Programs Coordinator, Hannah Bement, for all the deets.

Rain date will be the following Thursday, August 25, same time.